Are you considering pursuing a career as a practical nurse? But maybe you don’t have the time or resources to attend a traditional LPN program? Or maybe you’re looking for a more flexible way to learn at your own pace? If so, then an online LPN class may be the perfect fit for you.
Online LPN classes offer an alternative way for students to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become licensed practical nurses. With the convenience of online learning, you can study from the comfort of your own home, set your own schedule, and avoid the costs associated with a traditional program. Plus, with the current social distancing measures in place, distance learning has become more important than ever. So, let’s take a closer look at what an online LPN class entails and how it can benefit you.
Benefits of Online LPN Classes
Online LPN classes provide flexibility in terms of scheduling and location, and may also be more affordable than traditional in-person classes.
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What to Look for in an Online LPN Program
When choosing an online LPN program, it’s important to ensure it is accredited, offers clinical experience opportunities, and has a track record of success in graduate outcomes.
What Is An Online LPN Class?
An online LPN class is a nursing program that allows individuals to earn their license practical nursing degree through a virtual classroom. Unlike traditional classroom settings, online LPN courses provide flexibility in terms of scheduling and location, making it easier for students to balance their studies with work and family obligations. In an online LPN class, students access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments all through an online platform. While the coursework is mainly online, students will still be required to complete clinical hours in a healthcare setting to gain practical experience.
How Do Online LPN Classes Work?
Online LPN classes work just like traditional classes, only with virtual classroom sessions. The curriculum includes courses in biology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, anatomy, and physiology, among others. The online LPN courses are usually conducted asynchronously, which means that students are free to access course materials at their own convenience, rather than having to log in at a specific time.
Students also have the opportunity to interact with instructors and peers through discussion boards, email, and video conferences. However, clinical hours, usually done in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, are done in person, and students have to complete a set number of hours before graduating. Students have to arrange their own clinicals, but most institutions offer guidance and suggestions depending on the student’s location.
What Are The Benefits Of Taking Online LPN Classes?
Online LPN classes have several benefits that make them a popular choice for many aspiring practical nurses. Here are some of them:
- Flexibility: The flexibility offered by online LPN classes is unmatched, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family obligations while also being able to pace up or slow down their studies.
- Lower cost: Online LPN classes are generally more affordable than traditional classroom-based courses. Students save on commuting costs, housing costs, and textbooks, among other expenses.
- Wide range of choices: Online LPN classes can be taken from anywhere, as long as the student has a reliable internet connection. This expands the range of options available, and students can choose from several schools, including those that are not geographically accessible.
- Improved learning experience: Online LPN courses are designed with user-friendly interfaces that are interactive, enabling students to learn faster and more effectively. Also, online discussions tend to be more robust than traditional in-person classroom settings, as more people can participate efficiently.
Who Is Eligible To Attend Online LPN Classes?
To attend an online LPN class, there are several eligibility requirements that students must meet. While the specific requirements may vary by school or state, most institutions adhere to the following:
- Minimum age: The minimum age for enrollment in an LPN course is usually 18 years old. Some states may allow persons younger than 18 to attend an LPN course depending on circumstances such as early high school graduation, emancipation or permission from their legal guardians.
- High school degree: Students who want to enroll in an online LPN course must have a high school degree or an equivalent GED.
- Background Checks: Before being accepted into an online LPN class, prospective students must undergo a background check to determine if they have a criminal history or any other red flags.
- Medical clearance: Students must show proof of good health, which includes vaccinations, tuberculosis (TB) skin test, physical exam, and drug tests. They must also meet the minimum physical fitness requirements, such as the ability to stand for long hours and lift heavyweights.
What Is The Cost Of Online LPN Classes?
The cost of online LPN classes varies widely among institutions. However, they are usually less expensive than traditional occupational nursing courses. Community colleges tend to be less expensive than four-year colleges or universities. On average, the cost of an online LPN program ranges between $3000 to $20,000. Before enrolling, students should conduct research on school fees and other costs such as textbooks, equipment, and clinical costs to avoid surprises, which could be overwhelming.
How Can I Succeed In Online LPN Classes?
Success in online LPN classes requires dedication, commitment, and good time management skills. Here are some tips to succeed in online LPN classes;
- Create a schedule: Develop a study schedule and stick to it. Allow for breaks and ensure that study time is protected.
- Dedicate time and space: It is essential to find a quiet place where you can focus on your studies without interruptions or distractions.
- Communicate with your instructors and peers: Communication helps to get feedback, answers to questions, understand the material better and develop meaningful relationships with peers as you complete the course.
- Participate in discussions: Participating in online discussion can be helpful to your learning and a great way to learn from peers.
- Seek help and clarification: There will be times when the learning material might be challenging. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructor or classmates for clarification and support.
- Stay motivated: Stay motivated by reflecting on your goals, progress, accomplishments, and the value of a nursing career. The journey of learning is challenging but rewarding when achieved.
Conclusion
Online LPN classes offer an accessible and flexible learning option for aspiring practical nurses. They provide students with the flexibility to balance their studies with work and family obligations. While online LPN courses may be mostly conducted virtually, students must complete some clinical hours to gain practical experience. While this arrangement is new for most students, by following the above-discussed tips, students can be successful in LPN online classes.
FAQ
1. What is an online LPN class?
An online LPN class is a nursing program designed for individuals who want to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) but cannot attend classes on campus. The course is offered online, and students can access the materials and complete assignments from anywhere they have internet access. Unlike traditional classroom-based LPN courses, online LPN classes allow students to study at their own pace and offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling and location.
2. What are the benefits of taking an online LPN class?
There are several benefits of taking an online LPN class. First, it is more flexible than traditional classroom-based courses, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location. Second, it is more affordable since online programs usually cost less than traditional programs. Third, online LPN classes offer interactive learning experiences through interactive forums and discussion boards.
3. Is online LPN class as good as traditional LPN class?
Yes, online LPN classes are as good as traditional ones. The curriculum and course materials are the same, and students have access to the same resources and support. The only difference is the mode of instruction, which is facilitated online for online classes. Online LPN classes are a great option for those who cannot attend traditional classes due to work or family obligations.
4. How long does it take to complete an online LPN class?
The duration of an online LPN class varies depending on the program, but most programs take between 12 to 18 months to complete. However, some programs can be completed in as little as 9 months. The duration of the course also depends on the student’s pace of study and the number of courses they take per semester.
5. What are the admission requirements for an online LPN class?
The admission requirements for an online LPN class vary depending on the program, but most schools require a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA of 2.0, and a passing score on the pre-admission exam. Some schools may also require applicants to have completed prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology before applying.
6. How much does it cost to take an online LPN class?
The cost of taking an online LPN class varies from school to school. On average, the cost can range from $10,000 to $15,000. Additionally, some schools may charge additional fees for textbooks, lab kits, and other course materials. Prospective students are encouraged to research and compare the costs of various online LPN programs to find the most affordable option.
7. Can I transfer credits from an online LPN class to a traditional LPN program?
It depends on the school you want to transfer to and their policies on credit transfers. Some schools accept transfer credits from online LPN classes, while others may not. Prospective students who plan to transfer credits are encouraged to research the transfer policies of their target schools before enrolling in an online LPN program.
8. What kind of support do I get from the school during the online LPN course?
Online LPN programs offer various support services to their students, including academic advising services, tutoring services through student support, and technical support. Additionally, some programs may also offer career services, such as job placement assistance and interview preparation.
9. What kind of technologies do I need to participate in an online LPN class?
Students taking an online LPN class need a device (such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone) with a reliable internet connection. They may also need specific software or tools for the course, such as a webcam and microphone for online classes or lab simulations. Prospective students are encouraged to check the program’s technological requirements before enrolling in the course.
10. What are the career prospects for LPNs?
LPNs have many career opportunities in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home health agencies. LPNs can work in various roles such as long-term care nurses, hospice nurses, and rehabilitation nurses, among others. The job outlook for LPNs is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a job growth rate of 9% from 2019 to 2029.